Contra

Wait, this isn't a game review.

Contra is the highly anticipated second album from New York quartet Vampire Weekend. After surfing on the success of their self-titled debut for two years, Vampire Weekend have struck with another 10 quirky, summery songs. With a whole new range of strange topics ranging from warm drinks to incest

(that would be the song Cousins, by the way) the tracks are all slightly bewildering but definitely catchy. However, dancing to this music may be a problem, and it will certainly take you a few spins to learn the lyrics.

Once again, Contra is full of the African drum beats and indie rock combinations from the first VW album, although the boys have experimented a little this time, with the track California English featuring some Auto - tune. It doesn't really suit the band, but as an experiment it is certainly interesting. Overall, the mix of tracks doesn't seem as well put together as the first album, and the few duds (Taxi Cab and Run) stick out more due to the limited amount of songs. However, there are some real gems on here. Stand outs include the single White Sky, where front man Ezra Koenig's lovely high notes, and the manic, energy filled Cousins.

Take some time to look at the videos on the VW website. They convey the madness that makes VW such as standout band.

Contra gets better with each listen - it is not as immediately engaging as its predecessor, but persevere and you find some brilliant tunes.

Have a great (Vampire) weekend.